Amnesty International has expressed concern over the increasing presence of non-uniformed police officers during anti-government protests in Kenya.
In a statement released on July 20, the human rights lobby decried the rise in arbitrary arrests of peaceful demonstrators by officers disguised in civilian clothes.
Irungu Houghton, the Executive Director of Amnesty International, emphasized the importance of all officers deployed to quell protests being easily identifiable through uniforms or number badges. This transparency is crucial to prevent abuses of power and other violations during protests.
He further urged that all arrests must be conducted lawfully. Irungu added that protests must not be used as a tool to punish or intimidate individuals.
For transparency and accountability, police officers must be identifiable by uniform or number badges to avoid abuse of power and other violations
Amnesty International – Kenya
“Those arrested have the right to be informed of the charges against them. They also have the right of access to legal representation, medical assistance, and bail or bond within 24 hours,” Irungu asserted.
The human rights advocate called for an immediate end to violent policing and the criminalization of protests by the state.
Irungu argued that the government holds the duty to protect protestors from intimidation and suppression. He added that any calls by political leaders urging violence against protestors should be addressed and prevented.
Amnesty International also faulted the use of excessive force on protestors. The lobby group condemned the use of unnecessary and unlawful force, including lethal force. Such actions have resulted in increased casualties among both adults and children during protests.
Since March 2023, the organization has documented at least 30 cases of protesters allegedly killed by police. The causes of the deaths were attributed to suffocation from tear gas and lethal shootings.
Irungu urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the police, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to investigate and prosecute individuals, including leaders, who use social media to incite acts of violence, hatred, and discrimination among Kenyans.
Amnesty International’s call for transparent policing and protection of protestors’ rights came after concerns over police conduct during demonstrations were raised.
Amnesty International is the latest international organization to raise its voice on the excessive use of force by police. The UN and other international organizations have decried the use of tear gas on innocent civilians as well as children.
